Treating Cerebral Palsy with Wii Video Games

The University of West Indies, School of Physical Therapy, recently conducted a study on the use of the Wii as a adjunct to physical therapy treatment for children with cerebral palsy. The study was a small one, only involving six children, but the results they found were very positive.

The Wii was chosen largely because of it’s affordability compared to other gaming consoles, making it a much more likely candidate to be purchased by the families of children requiring treatment. Compared to standard physical therapy treatment costs the Wii is very affordable.

One of the primary reasons cited for the success of using video games as therapy is because of the much greater likelyhood that the children will actually take part in the therapy. The video games, while being physically challenging, are also engaging and make the children what to do their therapy.

It is believed that the neurological connections in the brain are strengthened by the new activities offered by the ‘virtual reality’ game play and that the plasticity of the brain allows it to do some ‘re-wiring’ as a result of the mental and physical stimulation.

Although this study involved children with cerebral palsy, the researchers are excited to explore the possibilities of using the Wii with people with cardiovascular impairments as well.

An important note regarding the TMJ all Physical Therapists need to be aware of:

Many dentists & physicians are in need of referring their patients with persistent headaches, earaches, and facial pains related to the TMJ to other health care professionals; however they are unaware that some PTs can effectively evaluate and treat the TMJ.

There are great opportunities for PTs to assist their local dentists and help many individuals who suffer from persistent and disabling TMJ conditions. Management includes education on condition, highly effective home exercise programs and gentle mobilizations.

CRITERIA FOR ACCEPTANCE

tPhysical Therapists who are licensed or who are eligible to be licensed to practicetThere are NO prerequisites for this course

GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION

tCourse material is referenced from up to date research articlestAn easy to understand practical workbook is providedtAll instructions are provided in a clear and concise manner in order to ensure an effective and enjoyable learning experiencetNote: As this is primarily a practical course, please dress appropriately

Tax Receipts provided on course date / $30.00 is non-refundable / No refunds for cancellations 2 weeks or less before course date

tMember of the International Federation of Manipulative TherapiststCredentialed with The McKenzie Institute International

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of the program, the Physical Therapist will be confident in applying evidence-based clinical assessment skills for the classification of individuals presenting with acute, sub-acute or persistent lumbo-pelvic pain.

Physical Therapists will also be able to confidently identify several potential contributing physical, psychosocial and general health factors to persistent / chronic pain.

Upon determining the classification and all the potential contributing factors, Physical Therapists will be able to administer the most effective treatment / management options based on the UNIQUE presentation of the patient.

tMember of the International Federation of Manipulative TherapiststCredentialed with The McKenzie Institute International

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of the program, the Physical Therapist will be confident in applying evidence-based clinical assessment skills for the classification of individuals presenting with acute, sub-acute or persistent lumbo-pelvic pain.

Physical Therapists will also be able to confidently identify several potential contributing physical, psychosocial and general health factors to persistent / chronic pain.

Upon determining the classification and all the potential contributing factors, Physical Therapists will be able to administer the most effective treatment / management options based on the UNIQUE presentation of the patient.

Physical Therapists will be provided with workbook that will systematically guide the subjective and physical evaluation process.

CRITERIA FOR ACCEPTANCE

tThis program is restricted to Registered Physical Therapists who are licensed to practice in Canada, or PT students awaiting licensing.tThere are NO prerequisites for this programtPrior completion of previous APTEI lumbar, SI & hip courses is optional, but NOT compulsory

GENERAL COURSE INFORMATION

Tax Receipts provided on course date / $50.00 is non-refundable / No refunds for cancellations 2 weeks or less before course date